Category: LiveNews

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Labour reshuffle: Willow-Jean Prime loses education portfolio

Source: Radio New Zealand

Willow-Jean Prime has picked up the social development role. VNP / Phil Smith

Willow-Jean Prime has lost the education portfolio, but picked up social development, as Labour reshuffles its decks ahead of the election.

Ginny Andersen will take on the education role, making her the third Labour MP to take on the role in just over a year.

Peeni Henare‘s departure from Parliament, along with Adrian Rurawhe earlier this year, has given Labour leader Chris Hipkins an opportunity to change things up.

“These refreshed portfolios ensure our team will hit the ground running when we win the election in November,” Hipkins said.

Willie Jackson, who had taken on the social development role last year, will instead take on Māori Crown Relations.

Ginny Andersen will take on the education portfolio. RNZ / REECE BAKER

Speaking to the changes, Hipkins said Prime’s new social development role required “care, empathy, and a strong focus on improving outcomes for New Zealanders,” while Jackson would focus on running a “winning campaign” in the Māori seats.

Among the other changes are Damien O’Connor picking up Henare’s defence spokesperson role, Reuben Davidson taking over economic development, and Tangi Utikere becoming the spokesperson for state-owned enterprises.

Willie Jackson, who had taken on the social development role last year, will instead take on Māori Crown Relations. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Vanushi Walters moves considerably higher up Labour’s list, and takes over foreign affairs from Henare.

New list MP Georgie Dansey has been given the rainbow issues and regulation roles. Dan Rosewarne, who will re-enter Parliament following Henare’s retirement, has been given the rural communities and small business portfolios.

Duncan Webb, who has announced he will retire at the election, has lost all of his spokesperson roles.

Vanushi Walters takes over foreign affairs from Peeni Henare who is departing politics. VNP / Phil Smith

His justice portfolio has been given to Camilla Belich.

Hipkins said Webb would instead take on a “mentoring role to support our team.”

The Prime Minister is also expected to announce a ministerial reshuffle in the coming weeks, following the retirement of Judith Collins and Dr Shane Reti’s announcement he will step down at the election.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/labour-reshuffle-willow-jean-prime-loses-education-portfolio/

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90% of New Zealand homes in need of immedate maintenance

Source: Radio New Zealand

Images showing rot in beams and exposed wood and peeling paint on window frames. Branz/supplied

About 90 percent of homes in New Zealand are in need of immediate maintenance, with the total cost of the work thought to be $27 billion, research has found.

Centre for Research, Evaluation and Social Assessment (CRESA) – with Building Research Levy backing – is running a project aimed at helping owners keep their homes well cared for in an affordable way.

CRESA’s research director Kay Saville-Smith, told Nine to Noon, the 90 percent figure came from a variety of resources including the latest condition survey done by the centre along with other research it had done.

Saville-Smith said any home that did not operate well, for example, losing heat or getting too warm counted as being in need of maintenance.

The risks associated with an unmaintained home were that it could become damaged during any adverse weather events.

Older homes were likely to be in need of repairs, Saville-Smith said, particularly if the home had not been well maintained on a regular basis.

She said while new builds were less likely to need immediate maintenance, they were not always suitable for the conditions and environment of where they had been built.

Old weatherboard homes for example with wooden window frames, were pretty straightforward to maintain, Saville-Smith said, but for many houses things were not so simple.

“Homeowners, particularly as they age, get less and less willing and sometimes less capable of some of the work.”

Over the years, there had been many design periods which used lots of different sorts of cladding and roof tiles, she said, and every different type of cladding on a home moved in a different way.

Different cladding moves in different ways. (File photo) 123RF

“The main thing consumers can do when choosing homes and designs is to understand and think about these things.

“You want a resilient home not one that just looks a bit flash.”

She said it was also important for homeowners to remember low maintenance did not mean no maintenance.

AUT Professor of Construction Management John Tookey, said a lot of general maintenance which needed to be done on homes was relatively small including clearing gutters, touching up paint, checking for gutter cracks and treating surfaces.

He said problems arose “when the outside gets inside.”

“If you don’t maintain, issues can become serious,” he said.

At this stage, Saville-Smith said she did not have data on how much people were paying to keep their homes maintained but they were working with housing providers to get a better idea of this.

She said CRESA wanted to work with designers and housing providers as well as the building industry on how to build better, more resilient homes.

Tookey said the biggest barrier for homeowners with maintaining their houses was finances. Everything from mowing grass to trimming trees came at a cost if someone was being hired to do it.

The next thing it came down to was skills and an ageing population, he said.

“We’ve become increasingly a victim of our sedentary lifestyle.”

His advice for homeowners who did not have access to a lot of funds was to “focus on the small stuff”.

That included using treatments on wood and touching up the house with paint.

He said by the time a problem was big enough to get someone in to fix it, it was going to be expensive.

“Deal with small problems before they become big problems and have a regular budget for maintenance.”

Tookey said it was good to try and set up one day each month where you can do maintenance around your home.

Coming into winter, Tookey said it was good to prepare your home by making sure there were curtains to keep in the heat, along with insulation under the floor and in the roof. He suggested purchasing a dehumidifier to take the moisture out of the air was also good.

Saville-Smith envisioned a checklist of home maintenance for a number of different styles of homes which could be given to homeowners.

She hoped the project would be able to get out the door within 18 months.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/90-of-new-zealand-homes-in-need-of-immedate-maintenance/

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Small ideas, big impact: How simple digital tools help Auckland’s factories thrive

Source: Auckland Council

If you travel past Auckland’s many factories, it’s not immediately obvious how much these businesses contribute to our everyday life. But they do, producing everything from stainless-steel tubing to food products, plastics, electronics and specialist components. 

They’re also a very important part of New Zealand’s prosperity. Auckland’s manufacturing firms keep thousands of people in work and contribute billions to the economy. In the year to the end of March 2025, Auckland’s manufacturing sector contributed more than $12.5 billion to New Zealand’s GDP, more than a third of the country’s total manufacturing contribution.   

Yet behind the factory doors, many of these businesses face a common challenge – how to keep up in a world where digital technology is moving faster than ever. 

A new initiative called Digital Manufacturing Light (DMLight) is looking to change that. DMLight helps small factories add simple, low-cost digital tools to their existing machines and processes – things like basic sensors and dashboards that show what’s happening on the factory floor in real time.  

Tested and adopted from a University of Cambridge initiative by the University of Auckland with support and investment from Auckland Council, DMLight shows that a little bit of tech can go a long way to improve productivity. 

Accessible, low-cost DMLight digital tools can quickly help factory staff spot problems sooner and avoid bottlenecks. A sensor showing when a machine stops unexpectedly can save hours of guesswork – hours saved can mean fewer delays and stronger local businesses.  

For manufacturing firms, using DMLight is like upgrading your existing car with new sensors rather than buying a brand-new vehicle.  

The Government has now committed up to $475,000 per year for three years to expand DMLight. Starting 1 April 2026, the programme will support at least 180 small and medium-sized manufacturers across Auckland, Waikato, Northland and Bay of Plenty. Support includes help choosing the right digital tools, hands-on installation, and training so local workers can install, run and maintain the technology themselves. 

Case study 

During the Auckland pilot for DMLight, the University of Auckland and Auckland Council team worked with companies such Spiraweld Stainless Ltd, which retrofitted its older, semi-automatic spiral pipe welding machine using the DMLight method. The company added low-cost, off‑the‑shelf components (computer‑vision camera, stepper motor actuator, Raspberry Pi controller and HMI) to automate welding-gap control with minimal disruption and cost. No existing equipment needed to be replaced – just the addition of approximately $1000 in hardware of low-cost tools to give operators clearer information. 

To learn more 

Any small or medium-sized manufacturer in Auckland, Waikato, Northland and Bay of Plenty can reach out to the programme team at dmlight@auckland.ac.nz to learn more or register interest. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/small-ideas-big-impact-how-simple-digital-tools-help-aucklands-factories-thrive/

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Cut it out: recidivist burglar caught by Police

Source: New Zealand Police

Matamata Police have arrested a recidivist burglar after an electronic tracking tag alerted officers to the location of a stolen lawnmower.

A local officer took the report of the burglary on Monday morning, with the victim stating that the $1,200 brand new lawnmower had an electronic tracking tag attached for security.

Police quickly went to a private address where the tracking tag had been shown pinging, locating and recovering the lawnmower to much delight of the victim.

A 36-year-old man was arrested on a charge of receiving property over $1,000 and has been remanded in custody. They will appear for a second time in the Hamilton District Court on 24 March.

“This is a great outcome for all, being able to quickly recover a stolen item and catching a recidivist burglar red-handed,” said Senior Sergeant Aaron Fraser, Waikato East Response Manager.

“Police encourage you to keep valuable belongings out of sight and secured, note down serial numbers of tools or notable appliances, and engrave belongings if you can.

“In this case, adding an additional element of security like an electronic tracking tag came up trumps for the victim and greatly aided officers in locating the stolen item,” said Senior Sergeant Fraser.

To report burglaries and thefts, contact Police. If it’s happening now, call 111, for any incidents after the fact, call 105 or make a report online by clicking ‘Update Report’. 

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/cut-it-out-recidivist-burglar-caught-by-police/

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MEDIA ADVISORY: Hawke’s Bay Police Open Day

Source: New Zealand Police

MEDIA ADVISORY: Hawke’s Bay Police Open Day

Hawke’s Bay Police invite everyone to an Open Day at the Hastings Police Station on Sunday 15 March from 10am-12pm (gates close at 11.30am).

Entrance via Market St Police Station gates.

Held at the rear of the station, the event will host a patrol car, Police Dogs, the Armed Offenders Squad, Police Search and Rescue and much more. Find out more about a career in Police.

The ‘Cinema car” will also be there, which is an upcycled police vehicle converted into a mini cinema to watch the latest Police YouTube vlog ‘Ride Along’ and other recruitment reels.

ENDS

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/media-advisory-hawkes-bay-police-open-day/

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Greenpeace – Renewed calls for Govt to lower nitrate contamination limits, following Danish precedent

Source: Greenpeace

In  an open letter launched this morning, Greenpeace is calling on the New Zealand Government to put public health above industry profits by lowering the legal limit for nitrate in drinking water. (ref. https://www.greenpeace.org/aotearoa/publication/open-letter-nitrate-limits/ )
This follows the Danish Government’s move to lower the legal limit for nitrate in drinking water, after an expert panel recommended it should reduce from 11.3mg/L – which is also New Zealand’s current standard – to 1mg/L. The panel’s recommendation was to take a precautionary approach to protect against the risk of bowel cancer.
Greenpeace Aotearoa freshwater campaigner Will Appelbe says, “Rural families’ drinking water is being poisoned by the intensive dairy industry, yet the New Zealand Government is burying its head in the sand and pretending there’s no problem.”
“A growing body of international evidence has linked elevated levels of nitrate in drinking water with several human health risks, including bowel cancer, preterm birth, and Blue Baby syndrome.”
“But while Denmark moves to protect people from these health risks, the Luxon Government is protecting dairy industry profits.”
Appelbe says that the Danish situation is a ‘good news story’ – one that New Zealand needs to replicate.
“The Danish Government has recognised a threat to human health, and taken action to stop the problem from getting worse.
“Nitrate contamination has been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer, preterm birth, and at high levels, Blue Baby syndrome. Another recent international study suggests a correlation between high nitrate in drinking water and increased dementia risk. The weight of the available evidence supports taking a precautionary approach and reducing exposure to nitrate contamination.”
“The evidence is clear. Nitrate contamination puts people’s health at risk. That’s why we’re calling on the Luxon Government to lower the Maximum Allowable Value – the legal limit – for nitrate in drinking water now.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/greenpeace-renewed-calls-for-govt-to-lower-nitrate-contamination-limits-following-danish-precedent/

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Animal Welfare – Government drops plans to revive live animal export trade – SAFE

Source: SAFE For Animals

SAFE is celebrating news that the Government will not move forward with plans to reinstate live animal exports by sea, ensuring the ban on the trade remains in place at least for this parliamentary term.
Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard confirmed yesterday that Cabinet had been unable to reach agreement on reviving the industry.
SAFE CEO Debra Ashton says the announcement is a huge relief.
“Live export forces animals into gruelling journeys across oceans where they can spend weeks confined on crowded ships, exposed to extreme heat, distress, and injury,” says Ashton.
“No animal should have to endure that.”
Ashton says the outcome reflects the strength of public opposition to the trade.
“More than 57,000 people signed a petition in 2024 calling on the Government to protect the ban. New Zealanders made it clear they did not want to see animals shipped overseas on long and dangerous journeys.”
The Government had previously signalled it intended to revive the trade under what it described as a “gold standard” for animal welfare.
Ashton says that promise was never credible.
“There is no such thing as a ‘gold standard’ for shipping live animals across oceans. The risks are inherent to the trade itself.”
“No amount of regulation can remove the suffering animals endure during weeks at sea, or guarantee their welfare once they arrive overseas.”
SAFE says it remains concerned that the minister responsible for animal welfare continues to support the trade.
“Live export has repeatedly been shown to put animals at significant risk,” says Ashton.
“It raises serious questions about whether someone who supports this trade is the right person to hold the animal welfare portfolio.”
SAFE says yesterday’s announcement will be welcomed by the tens of thousands of people who spoke up to defend the ban.
“This is a moment to celebrate,” says Ashton.
“People across the country stood up for animals, and today those animals are safer because of it.” 
SAFE is Aotearoa’s leading animal rights organisation.
We’re creating a future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our core work empowers society to make kinder choices for ourselves, animals and our planet.
Notes: 
– On 10 November 2025, SAFE filed a formal complaint relating to Andrew Hoggard’s oversight of the animal-welfare portfolio, citing a pattern of regulatory capture in which industry interests have been allowed to override legal requirements and scientific evidence, thereby undermining public trust in animal-welfare governance.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/animal-welfare-government-drops-plans-to-revive-live-animal-export-trade-safe/

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Health and Politics – Government Acknowledges Aged Care Pressures But Families and Carers Still Carrying the Load

Source: Aged Care Association

The Aged Care Association says today’s Government response to the Health Committee inquiry into aged care capacity recognises serious system pressures but leaves families and informal carers continuing to shoulder the consequences.
The inquiry examined how well the aged care sector can support people experiencing neurological cognitive disorders, including dementia. While the Government has welcomed the report and referred its recommendations to the Aged Care Ministerial Advisory Group for further consideration, no immediate actions or support measures were announced.
Association Chief Executive Tracey Martin says that delay has real-world impacts beyond providers, it lands hardest on families.
“Behind every delayed reform is a daughter reducing her work hours, a spouse managing complex care alone, or a family struggling to find a bed close to home. When the system strains, families absorb the pressure.”
Inquiry Highlighted Growing Strain on Families
The Health Committee heard extensive evidence about:
  • Limited availability of aged residential care beds
  • Financial barriers to accessing care
  • Workforce shortages affecting service quality and continuity
  • Inconsistent access to home and community support
  • The particular challenges of dementia care
These pressures often leave families filling gaps in care, navigating fragmented services, and carrying emotional, physical, and financial burdens.
“Families are becoming the default providers of care when services are stretched. That is not sustainable and it is not fair.”
Respite and Support Still Uncertain
While the Committee recommended establishing regular respite care programmes to support carers, the Government response points only to ongoing strategy work, with no new funding or delivery commitments.
“Respite is not a luxury – it is what keeps carers healthy enough to continue caring. Without reliable respite, burnout is inevitable.”
Delays in Funding Reform Flow Through to Households
The Government confirmed that aged care funding reform will be considered as part of a broader review process reporting back in 2026.
Until then:
  • Bed shortages persist
  • Dementia services remain financially constrained
  • Providers struggle to expand capacity
  • Access delays push care responsibilities back onto families
“When funding models don’t reflect the real cost of care, services can’t expand. When services can’t expand, families wait longer or cope alone.”
Home Care Progress Welcome But Gaps Remain
The Association acknowledged positive signals around:
  • More flexible home and community care services
  • Moves toward nationally consistent funding
  • Longer-term provider contracts
However, implementation timelines remain unclear.
“Supporting people to remain in the communities they know and love is the right goal. But families need to see changes on the ground, not just policy workstreams.”
A Human Issue, Not Just a System Issue
New Zealand’s ageing population means more families will face complex care decisions in the coming years.
“Aged care is not an abstract policy area. It determines whether older people can live with dignity, and whether families can remain families – rather than becoming exhausted, unsupported care coordinators.”
Call for Urgency
The Advisory Group is expected to report by mid-2026.
“We respect the need for careful policy design, but the lived reality is urgent. Families and carers need practical support now – clearer pathways, available beds, sustainable services, and meaningful respite.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/health-and-politics-government-acknowledges-aged-care-pressures-but-families-and-carers-still-carrying-the-load/

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Arrests made, drugs and firearms seized, Canterbury

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Damon Wells: 

Police have arrested two men and seized amounts cash, methamphetamine, firearms, and ammunition, in Canterbury.

Over the past two weeks, Police executed search warrants at various properties linked to Mongrel Mob gang members, in Christchurch and North Canterbury.

During these searches, Police located and seized several thousand dollars in cash, methamphetamine, several firearms, and ammunition.

Police also discovered a “chop shop” and have been able to recover several stolen vehicles. A further five vehicles were seized by the courts due to unpaid fines.

As a result, two men, who are both patched Mongrel Mob members, were arrested.

They are remanded in custody, due to reappear in the Christchurch District Court in the coming weeks.

A 34-year-old is due to appear on 25 March and a 29-year-old is due to appear on 1 April. Both are facing charges relating to driving matters, possession of methamphetamine for supply, possession of cannabis, and unlawful possession if ammunition.

Police are not ruling out further charges.

Police are committed to disrupting and minimising the social harm caused by gangs in our community. If you have any information or concerns about illegal activity, please make a report through 111 if there is an immediate threat, or through 105 – with as much detail as possible – either online or over the phone, if it is after the fact.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/arrests-made-drugs-and-firearms-seized-canterbury/

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Consumer NZ – No u-turn to petrol for New Zealand EV owners

Source: Consumer NZ

New research from Consumer NZ shows an overwhelming 96% of electric vehicle (EV) owners would buy another EV, confirming strong satisfaction among current owners.

Consumer has released findings from its latest car reliability and satisfaction survey, representing responses from 5,791 members and supporters collected in November and December 2025.

“This survey canvassed car owner experiences, providing insights into preferred engines, brand performance, reliability and overall owner satisfaction,” says Consumer NZ chief executive Jon Duffy.

While petrol vehicles continue to dominate the nation’s roads, making up 59% of cars New Zealanders own, the landscape is shifting. The share of EVs and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) has grown from 12% in 2023 to 17% in 2025. Hybrid ownership has also risen significantly, increasing from 10% to 15% over the same period.

“This indicates a gradual but growing shift towards going electric on our roads,” says Duffy.  

Over half of EV owners made the switch with the anticipation of lower running costs, and 81% of current owners say their operating costs are much cheaper. Environmental considerations were also a key factor.

“Our research found that one of the more affordable electric vehicle brands ranked highly when it came to price and reliability, outstripping performance on some better-known petrol brands,” says Duffy.

However, despite 56% of EV owners wanting lower running costs, 29% kept the same power plan after buying an EV, even though they would now be using more energy.

“This highlights the importance of heading to Powerswitch to the find the best deal for your energy needs. There are significant savings to be made on power by shopping around,” says Duffy.

The survey also explored how drivers feel about vehicle safety technology. Reversing cameras and sensors topped the list as respondents’ most valued safety features, while lane-keeping assist was ranked the most annoying.

For more insights into New Zealand’s best and worst cars, including reliable motoring, owner satisfaction, maintenance and repair costs, and the recipients of Consumer NZ’s annual People’s Choice awards, see the full survey results at consumer.org.nz/products/ car-reliability  

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/consumer-nz-no-u-turn-to-petrol-for-new-zealand-ev-owners/

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Crusaders back themselves to turn around slow start in Super Rugby

Source: Radio New Zealand

Crusaders halfback Noah Hotham in action against the Blues. Brett Phibbs

The Crusaders concede they have not been good enough but are confident they can turn around their disappointing start to the Super Rugby season.

The defending champions have won just one of their first four games with losses to the Highlanders, Brumbies and Blues.

Coach Rob Penney concedes they weren’t up to scratch, but said making wholesale selection changes was not the answer.

“Just a bit of a cohesion issue,” Penney said.

“We’ll fix that through consistent selections and working hard and we’re doing all that.”

Blues winger Caleb Clarke scores a try against the Crusaders. Brett Phibbs

That pressure is mounting on the Crusaders and that was evident in training on Tuesday with a couple of players involved in some “push and shove”.

“So there should be,” Penney said when asked if there was tension in the camp.

“It was a really lovely sight to see, actually. It is a reflection of how much it means. The boys aren’t happy with the performances and the outcomes.

“Very proud young men are going to come up against each other, and create a bit of sandpaper from time to time.”

Penney insists morale remains high among the squad and he’s confident they can get their season back on track, starting with a win over the Highlanders on Saturday night in Christchurch.

“No, it’s awesome. The group is really well connected, enjoy each other’s company and are desperate to do well. Yeah, there’s been some hiccups, but they’re not catastrophic and there’s a deep determination to turn this around.”

Last weekend’s 29-13 defeat at Eden Park was a hard watch for Crusaders fans with the visitors giving away multiple turnovers.

Penney concedes their preparation for the Blues game could have been better.

He said the coaches and senior players must help the less experienced members of the squad learn to perform consistently.

“Some of these young men are still finding a way to prepare for football at this level,” Penney said.

“It’s about trying to give those without the experience an opportunity to grow and develop and those with the experience the chance to help to teach them.”

George Bell scores for the Crusaders during the Crusaders v Brumbies Super Rugby match at the Apollo Projects Stadium. PhotoSport / John Davidson

The Crusaders defensive efforts also left a lot to be desired against the Blues and Penney said the players have taken ownership for some individual errors.

“Yeah, they were very courageous. In our review process, it’s not an environment where they’re intimidated to say they’ve made a mistake. It creates a learning opportunity and that’s the way we view it and they’ve been awesome on that front.”

The Crusaders host the Highlanders in Christchurch on Saturday night, their third New Zealand derby of the season.

“As a team, as a group, we’ve got some really good strategies around trying to nullify their strengths and expose our strengths as often as we can,” Penney said.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/crusaders-back-themselves-to-turn-around-slow-start-in-super-rugby/

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Covid booster should be given alongside annual flu vaccine – experts

Source: Radio New Zealand

Covid-19 booster vaccination rates are dropping. (File photo) AFP

The latest wave of Covid-19 is being driven by low vaccination rates, a health expert says.

Latest number show 50 hospitalisation and 19 deaths with the virus within the span of a week.

University of Otago professor of public health Michael Baker said earlier this week, New Zealand was experiencing its ninth wave of the virus.

The chairperson of General Practice New Zealand, Dr Bryan Betty, told Morning Report, vaccination rates were dropping, with the number of people getting a booster hovering at 56 percent.

As Winter came closer, Betty believed we would see the Covid booster being promoted alongside the annual flu vaccination.

“I think lining it up with it [the flu vaccine], does make sense.”

He said he would like to see people getting a Covid booster once a year, especially if they were aged over 65, or over 50 if of Māori descent.

Betty noted Covid-19 was not seasonal and affected people year round.

Covid-19 is not seasonal. (File photo) 123rf.com

“Covid is always with us, it never goes away. When immunity drops we see a wave. Due to low immunisation rates that wave is occurring at the moment.”

Betty said 56 percent of the eligible population had the Covid-19 booster while 14 percent of non-Māori and 28 percent of Māori were not vaccinated at all.

“The booster vaccination is important to protect yourself against these very irregular waves of Covid that can occur,” Betty said.

Health NZ’s national director of public health service Dr Nick Chamberlain, said while Covid hospitalisations and cases had increased in recent weeks, levels remained below previous peaks.

“Since the arrival of Covid in our communities, we have been seeing both summer and winter Covid-19 increases, but from the available data, recent increases are currently not near the magnitude of 2022-2024 rates of Covid-19 illness.”

Chamberlain said since fewer people were testing and reporting results, most cases were identified in hospitals. He said there was no single dominant variant driving the increase.

Health NZ was monitoring Covid-19 trends through wastewater testing, hospital data, genomic sequencing and case reporting, he said.

“As we head into winter, we encourage people, particularly those at higher risk, to get your flu vaccination and stay up to date with their Covid‑19 boosters.”

Betty said lots of patients weren’t testing due to the fact tests were not subsidised by the government.

“Our advice is to stay home in those situations.”

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/covid-booster-should-be-given-alongside-annual-flu-vaccine-experts/

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Jacinda Ardern joins star-studded Auckland Writers Festival line-up

Source: Radio New Zealand

Some of literature’s biggest names – from Aotearoa and around the world – will hit the stage for this year’s Auckland Writers’ Festival in mid-May.

The festival’s 2026 programme features more than 220 artists participating in more than 170 ticketed and free events. Audiences will be among the first in New Zealand to hear former prime minister Jacinda Ardern she talks about her Ockham Awards nominated memoir, A Different Kind of Power.

Other notable names include Mick Herron of ‘Slow Horses’ fame, acclaimed Australian writer Helen Garner and Irish author Roddy Doyle, as well as English novelist Ian McEwen and Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales.

Local authors on the slate include 2026 Honoured Writer Bill Manhire, Witi Ihimaera, Catherine Chidgey, Tusiata Avia, Charlotte Grimshaw, and Elizabeth Knox.

Younger audiences are being offered ‘Pukapuka Adventures’ – a free programme of family activities – and ‘Plot Twist’, a new branch of the festival aimed at rangitahi that includes zine making, DJs and BookTok meetups. Dav Pilkey, creator of the best-selling Dog Man and Captain Underpants series, will also be attending.

The Auckland Writers’ Festival is one of the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere, with 85,000 attendees in 2025 and 2024. Artistic director Lyndsey Fineran says she hopes the festival will entertain, enlighten and inform every type of reader.

“Nothing has thrilled me more than seeing attendances soar over the last two years and watching a broader range of readers (and the reading-curious…) fill our theatres.”

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/jacinda-ardern-joins-star-studded-auckland-writers-festival-line-up/

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Tall Ferns newcomers make international debut alongside USA’s biggest names

Source: Radio New Zealand

Caitlin Clark for USA and Emma Rogers for the Tall Ferns will both made their senior team debuts at the Basketball World Cup qualifiers this week. Photosport

Three of the biggest stars of USA women’s basketball share something special with a trio of inexperienced New Zealanders.

Jade Kirisome and cousins Emma and Briarley Rogers will make their debut for the Tall Ferns in Puerto Rico this week as New Zealand attempts to qualify for this year’s Basketball World Cup.

On the opposite side of the court WNBA stars Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese are also in line to make their senior national team debuts for USA at the six-team tournament.

While New Zealand’s newbies shone in the domestic competition Tauihi, which is broadcast internationally, Clark, Bueckers and Reese are a different level of recognisable for hoops fans around the world.

USA basketballer Paige Bueckers. ISHIKA SAMANT

Regardless of where they come from, the stadiums they normally play in, or the domestic accolades they already have, all players are bound to feel a few butterflies when they pull on their national team kit for the first time on the world stage.

Just getting the call from coach Nat Hurst that she had made the team was nervous moment for Emma Rogers who was named Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa’s Most Improved and Youth Player of the Year last year.

“Literally my hands were shaking, and my hands were sweating so much but was just really excited,” she said.

For Clark, who plays for the Indiana Fever, the opportunity to be back on court after an eight month injury lay-off added to her emotions.

“I don’t want to call it nerves but excitement to play,” Clark told American media this week.

“This is a really cool opportunity. If you don’t feel that way, then you probably don’t care enough.”

USA are the reigning world champions and have already booked their place at September’s global showpiece in Germany, so the qualification tournament is an opportunity to build connections between a group that does not play together often.

In stark contrast the Tall Ferns need to build on-court chemistry and win.

Tayla Dalton is the most experienced Tall Fern at this week’s World Cup qualification tournament. Supplied / BBNZ

With 18 games for the Tall Ferns captain Tayla Dalton is the most experienced player on the youthful roster that is missing players with American college commitments and injury.

Dalton has seen veteran players leave after the last Olympic cycle and is now helping to guide the new talent like Kirisome and Rogers.

“Everyone has their own journey to make it to this level and it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go from high school to America for college and then here, or it doesn’t mean you have to play WNBL.

“You can play in Tauihi, you can play from high school. There’s so many different pathways.”

While some thought New Zealand had been dealt a bad hand by landing in the qualification group that included the world champs and world number six Spain alongside Senegal, Italy and hosts Puerto Rico, Dalton had a different view.

“When the pool first got announced I had so many people sending it to me going, ‘oh my goodness you guys got ripped off’ or ‘you’re in the hardest pool’.

“But I honestly was just so excited, it’s not every day you get to play USA, the last time the Tall Ferns played them was over 15 years ago.

“And Spain, these are some of the best players in the world and this is why you play, because you want to compete against the best.

“And then personally, quite selfishly, I was on the team that lost to Puerto Rico on the buzzer beater to get to the Paris Olympics, so to get to have them in our pool and play against them in their home country, I think it would be pretty cool to win that game back.”

The top three teams from the tournament will go to the World Cup, but with USA already locked in, the fourth of the six teams should also get their ticket punched.

With five games in seven days Dalton said they would need to be strategic in San Juan.

“That’s the thing with these FIBA tournaments, they’re pretty full on, pretty heavy load on the body and very quick turnaround.

“So that’s why we’re just making sure all 12 girls are ready to go, because at any moment, anyone’s number’s going to be called up.

“I think we’re very realistic, we’ve got three target games in particular.

“USA and Spain, if we’re being very honest, these are two of the best teams in the world and we’ll get out there and we’re not competing to come close, we’re competing to win against all five teams.

“But there might be a couple games where we really rotate everyone through.”

The Tall Ferns first game of the World Cup qualification is on Thursday at 7am (NZT).

The Tall Ferns squad

  • Tayla Dalton (Tauranga Whai), 18 games
  • Tegan Graham (Perth Lynx), 3 games
  • Pahlyss Hokianga (Tokomanawa Queens & University of Portland), 13 games
  • Jade Kirisome (Tauranga Whai), debutant
  • Rebecca Pizzey (Southern Hoiho), 5 games
  • Sharne Robati (Adelaide Lightning), 5 games
  • Briarley Rogers (Tokomanawa Queens), debutant
  • Emma Rogers (Mainland Pouākai & Fairfield University), debutant
  • Emme Shearer (Tauranga Whai & UC Capitals), 8 games
  • Ashlee Strawbridge (Adelaide Lightning), 11 games
  • Ella Tofaeono (Adelaide Lightning), 11 games
  • Charlotte Whittaker (Mainland Pouākai & Adelaide Lightning), 8 games

The games

  • March 12 v Spain, 7am
  • March 13 v Italy, 10am
  • March 15 v Senegal, 7am
  • March 16 v United States of America, 7am
  • March 18 v Puerto Rico, 1pm

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/tall-ferns-newcomers-make-international-debut-alongside-usas-biggest-names/

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Person dies on popular walking track near Wānaka

Source: Radio New Zealand

Skyline Track near Wānaka. Department of Conservation

A person has died on a popular hiking track near Wānaka.

Emergency services were called to the Skyline Track, which runs along the ridgeline between Roys Peak and the Cardrona Valley, just before 3pm on Tuesday.

The body was recovered by a helicopter.

Police will not say what caused the death, but it will be referred to the coroner.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/person-dies-on-popular-walking-track-near-wanaka/

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Rural communities encouraged to attend emergency preparedness events

Source: New Zealand Government

A series of rural resilience workshops to help farmers and growers be better prepared for adverse events will be rolled out starting next week, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay says.

“Significant rainfall and flooding this summer have caused damage to farms and orchards, and had an impact on freight, transport and other infrastructure,” Mr McClay says.

“Farmers and growers have shown significant resilience getting through recent storms and ensuring the welfare of their animals. These workshops will help in emergency preparedness.”

The catchment emergency preparedness workshops will be held across the country, and a rural resilience roadshow is taking place on the West Coast this month.

Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson says rural communities are highly exposed to the impacts of emergencies, and preparation is key.

“The workshops are designed to be practical to help rural New Zealanders prepare for and respond to adverse events.”

A farm emergency plan template and an adverse event preparedness checklist for farmers can be found on the Good Farm website or on MPI’s website: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/funding-rural-support/adverse-events/preparing-for-adverse-events       

Note to editors:

Catchment Emergency Preparedness Workshops 

18 March 

Otago – Cullen Conference Room, Invermay, Mosgiel. 9.45am-4pm.

24 March

Blenheim – Landsdowne Hub. 10am-4pm.

14 April

Canterbury – Dunsandel Community Centre, Dunsandel. 11am-4pm.

23 April

Ruapehu district. Taumarunui. 10am-4pm. 

30 April

Waikato. Waitomo. 10am-4pm.

4 May

Waikato. Mangatangi Hall, Mangatangi. 10am-4pm. 

13 May 

Bay of Plenty. Te Puna. 

19 May

Northland. Whangārei.

 

Additional details for workshops will be available on the events section of the NZ Landcare Trust website closer to the time.

 

Rural Resilience Roadshow – West Coast 

11 March 

Westport – Sergeants Hill Hall. 6pm.

12 March 

Reefton – Community Centre Hall. 11am.

Greymouth – Ashley Hotel. 6pm.

18 March 

Kokatahi – Kokatahi Hall. 11am.

Harihari – Community Hall. 6pm.

19 March 

Franz Josef – Community Hall. 11am.

Haast – Okuru Hall. 5.30pm.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/rural-communities-encouraged-to-attend-emergency-preparedness-events/

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Pharmac to fund life‑changing treatments for children with cystic fibrosis

Source: PHARMAC

Pharmac will fund new treatment options for people living with cystic fibrosis from 1 April 2026.

The decision includes:

  • widening access to Trikafta and Kalydeco for all people with eligible mutations
  • funding Alyftrek for the first time for people with eligible mutations

“Trikafta has already changed the lives of hundreds of New Zealanders with cystic fibrosis,” says Pharmac’s Director Pharmaceuticals, Adrienne Martin. “This decision means more people, including young children, will be able to access these medicines earlier.”

Cystic fibrosis is a lifelong condition affecting around 500 New Zealanders, including children. There is no cure, and people living with the condition typically have shorter lives. It causes thick mucus to build up in the body, leading to serious lung infections and damage to other organs.

“Damage from cystic fibrosis begins very early in life,” says Martin. “Earlier access to these medicines can help prevent irreversible harm, improve quality of life, and give families greater certainty and peace of mind.”

Trikafta, Kalydeco and Alyftrek treat the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis by helping the body produce thinner mucus. These medicines are considered life‑changing treatments, helping people live longer, healthier lives.

Currently, Trikafta has Medsafe regulatory approval for use in people aged two years and older, and Alyftrek for children aged six and older.

“Widening access to these treatments will also benefit the health system,” says Martin. “People are likely to need fewer hospital admissions and less ongoing treatment over time.”

The decision follows consultation with people with cystic fibrosis, their families, health professionals and advocacy groups.

“We received over 780 responses, and people told us how important earlier access is,” says Martin. “They said that this decision could mean their toddlers grow up going to daycare, playing with friends, and staying out of hospital.”

Pharmac also received feedback that clearer and simpler access rules were needed.

“In response, we’ve simplified and aligned eligibility criteria and ensured the widest possible range of eligible mutations is covered,” explains Martin.

“While weren’t able to make every change that was suggested, we’ve listened carefully and will continue working with Health New Zealand to monitor access and consider further improvements over time.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/pharmac-to-fund-life-changing-treatments-for-children-with-cystic-fibrosis/

Posted on

Fire ban declared in Queenstown

Source: Radio New Zealand

A fire ban has been declared for most of the Queenstown Lakes district. RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A fire ban has been declared for most of the Queenstown Lakes district amid warnings of recent near misses.

Firefighters and helicopters fought to control a vegetation fire near houses at Arthurs Point on Tuesday, while a burn-off escaped at Arrow Junction last Friday.

District Commander Craig Gold said both fires threatened structures and affected local trails.

“The vegetation across the Lakes Zone is primed and ready to burn,” he said.

“The risks and consequences of any fire in these conditions far outweigh any benefit in terms of land management or recreation.”

The prohibited fire season for Lakes Zone begins at 8am on Thursday.

Outdoor fires were also banned in the neighbouring zone covering the Central Otago District.

Gold urged people not to be fooled by the lower temperatures over the summer and occasional rainy day, saying the vegetation was very dry.

March was predicted to be drier than normal.

“Community safety is our primary concern and the best way we can keep the community safe in these conditions is to stop fires from starting,” Gold said.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/fire-ban-declared-in-queenstown/

Posted on

Large kea flock ‘micro-chipped’ to track travels

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  11 March 2026

Department of Conservation science staff and rangers recently caught 31 kea from a record flock of about 36 birds, attaching leg bands with tiny microchips. The bands are scanned by solar-powered readers attached to hut roofs and other sites that kea like to visit, allowing their travels to be recorded.

DOC Senior Science Advisor Kerry Weston says the kea caught at Red Tarns above Aoraki Mount Cook Village were part of the largest flock seen at Aoraki since kea surveying began in 2019.

“They were mostly young kea, many just fledged from their nests, including one bird that had travelled 40 km from Whymper Hut on the West Coast across the main divide.

“This is the largest flock of kea I’ve seen at Aoraki or anywhere. Combined with increased sightings of kea around the park, it’s a positive sign that the local kea population is increasing.

“Young kea often band together in wandering flocks in late summer and autumn, but we don’t know where they’re coming from. We’re hoping this research will help answer that question.”

So far, 420 kea have been banded with the RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags over the past two summers as part of the trial. There are 13 readers installed at huts and other sites within the adjacent Westland Tai Poutini and Aoraki Mount Cook national parks, and other nearby conservation areas. More readers will be added including to New Zealand Alpine Club huts.

Use of the RFID tags is a cost-effective way of monitoring kea. The leg bands cost less than $1 each and the data is passively gathered as kea land on the readers.

The trial, which is supported by the World Parrot Trust, addresses one of the priorities of a new joint recovery strategy by DOC, Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and the Kea Conservation Trust to develop new tools and approaches to monitor kea populations and their movements across the landscape.

While it’s known kea fly large distances, improved understanding of kea movement patterns will help inform the design of effective predator control and other management measures.

Early trial results confirm young kea are travelling from lowland forests on the West Coast to alpine areas and across the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o Te Moana. For example, one young bird was tracked flying over 30 km from its nest in lowland forest at Ōkārito to Chancellor Hut, perched above Fox Glacier/Te Moeka o Tuawe.

“The Predator Free South Westland and Te Manahuna Aoraki Project predator eradication work underway in this area is benefiting kea and will give this flock of young birds a good chance of survival,” says Kerry.

Predators such as stoats and feral cats are a big threat to kea, which nest and forage on the ground.

“As we see kea numbers increase in places like Aoraki, we ask people to help keep kea wild and safe.

“When you are out naturing, you can help by giving kea space, not feeding them and keeping your belongings secured so they don’t attract curious kea,” says Kerry.

Young kea, typically aged 1-4 years, form ‘teenage gangs’ to socialise, play and learn to forage and navigate their environment. There’s safety in numbers with flocking also reducing the risk of predation. When birds reach sexual maturity at 3-4 years old, they settle down to find a mate and establish territory.

Predator Free South Westland

Te Manahuna Aoraki Project

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/large-kea-flock-micro-chipped-to-track-travels/

Posted on

Alleged burglars head to court

Source: New Zealand Police

A late-night burglary attempt in Henderson on Wednesday ended with two men facing court after being caught by Police.

Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector Nick Salter, says around 2.15am Police were called to Central Park Drive following reports people had been seen unlawfully inside a building.

“These two alleged offenders were seen on CCTV loading their vehicle with metal items from inside the warehouse,” he says.

“When alerted that Police were on the way they jumped into their vehicle and sped off down the road and into a long driveway.”

Police helicopter Eagle was first on the scene and saw the alleged offenders drive though a locked gate to avoid being caught.

“As the vehicle has left this area Eagle noticed one of the alleged offenders had been left behind,” Acting Inspector Salter says.

“The vehicle then accelerated away towards Te Atatū.”

Police units quickly located the vehicle and signalled for it to stop.

“The alleged offender failed to pull over and continued driving on Edmonton Road,” Acting Inspector Salter says.

“A short time later he has pulled into an address on Vera Road, where he has exited the vehicle and run into the backyard of the property.”

Police were right on the alleged offender’s tail and took him into custody without issue.

“Officers located a large amount of metal items in the vehicle that had come from the warehouse on Central Park Drive,” Acting Inspector Salter says.

“Delta units located the second offender hiding at the site he was seen being dropped off at earlier.”

Acting Inspector Salter says this was a great result for Police, apprehending the alleged offenders and potentially preventing further burglaries from occurring.

“We will continue to send the message that this type of offending is not acceptable,” he says.

“These two men will now have to answer for their actions in court.”

A 38-year-old man will appear in the Waitākere District Court today charged with burglary by night, behaving threateningly and failing to stop.

A 42-year-old man will also appear in the Waitākere District Court today charged with burglary by night and behaving threateningly.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/alleged-burglars-head-to-court/